BioTe and Seasonal Allergies

 

 

Seasonal Allergies affect more the 7% of American adults.  Some studies have pointed to a hormone imbalance as a contributing factor to seasonal allergy symptoms.  Below, we’ll explore a few of the connections between allergies and hormones.

The link between Hormones, Histamines, and Allergies

 

One of the most popular ways to reduce the symptoms of seasonal allergies is though th

e use of over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines, such as Claritin, Zyrtec, and Allegra.  These drugs work by blocking the effects of histamines that are released when the body comes into contact with allergens such as pollen and ragweed.  Histamines are what cause those annoying symptoms like runny noses, watery eyes, itching and swelling.

While OTC antihistamines may help manage symptoms, they could also be covering up underlying causes, including hormone imbalance.  Studies have shown estrogen and progesterone can affect the production and release of histamine in the body.

Estrogen promotes the release of histamine by simulating mast cells while at the same time down-regulating the DAO enzyme, which clears histamines.  As a result, an estrogen imbalance can cause a harmful estrogen/histamine loop that worsens allergy-type symptoms.

On the other hand, progesterone has been shown to stabilize mast cells and upregulate DAO, effectively reducing histamines and helping break the destructive estrogen/ histamine cycle.  By optimizing hormones using the BioTE Method, you can begin to restore the body’s natural balance of estrogen and progesterone.  Once the hormone levels are balanced, you could see the histamine levels reduced and allergy symptoms subdued.